Craftsman 14 Inch Chainsaw Manual

The Craftsman 14 Inch Chainsaw is a gas-powered, lightweight chainsaw designed for homeowners. It features a 14-inch Oregon bar and chain, a 42cc 2-cycle engine, automatic oiling, tool-free chain tensioning, an inertia-activated chain brake, a primer bulb for easy starts, a front handguard, and a rear handle with anti-vibration. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 42cc 2-cycle engine, 14-inch Oregon bar and chain, automatic chain oiler, inertia-activated chain brake, primer bulb, tool-free chain tensioner, anti-vibration handles.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assemble on a clean, flat surface.

1. Attach the guide bar and chain: Place bar on mounting studs, loop chain over sprocket and bar, adjust tension.
2. Fill the chain oil tank: Use SAE 30 weight bar and chain oil.
3. Mix fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum) with 2-cycle oil at a 50:1 ratio. Shake well.
4. Fill the fuel tank: Use fuel mix, avoiding spills.

WARNING! Always wear cut-resistant gloves during assembly. Ensure chain is installed with cutting teeth facing forward on top of bar.

First-Time Operation

Perform pre-start checks in a well-ventilated area away from sparks or flames.

1. Check chain tension: Chain should be snug but pull freely around bar.
2. Engage chain brake: Push forward until click before starting.
3. Prime: Press primer bulb 5-10 times until fuel is visible.
4. Set choke: Move to FULL CHOKE position.
5. Pull starter cord: Firmly pull until engine fires, then move choke to HALF. Pull again to start.
6. Warm up: Allow to idle for 30 seconds before cutting.

CAUTION! Never drop-start the chainsaw. Always hold firmly with both hands, right hand on rear handle, left on front.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 42cc.
• Power Source: Gasoline/oil mix (50:1).
• Bar Length: 14 inches.
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: .325" / .050".
• Drive Links: 52.
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 10.1 fl oz (300 ml).
• Oil Tank Capacity: 6.8 fl oz (200 ml).
• Sound Power Level: 112 dB(A).
• Vibration Level: Front/Rear handles: 5.2/2.5 m/s².
• Warranty: 2-year limited.

Controls and Components

Main Controls: Throttle trigger, throttle trigger lockout, stop switch, choke lever, primer bulb, chain brake lever, decompression valve.

Components: Front handguard, rear handle with anti-vibration, muffler, spark arrestor, fuel cap, oil cap, chain tensioner knob, side cover.

Operation: Squeeze throttle trigger lockout and throttle to increase RPM. Release to idle. Push chain brake forward to engage (stop chain); pull back towards operator to disengage. Use stop switch to shut off engine.

Fuel & Oil

Fuel: 50:1 mix of unleaded gasoline (87 octane min.) and 2-cycle engine oil (ISO-L-EGD, JASO FD, API TC). Oil: SAE 30 weight bar and chain oil for lubrication.

1. Always mix fuel in an approved container, not in the chainsaw tank.
2. Use fuel within 30 days. Stale fuel causes starting problems.
3. Check oil level before each use. Run saw at high idle to check oil flow onto chain.

Tip: Store fuel mix in a clearly labeled, sealed container away from heat and sunlight.

Cutting Techniques

Supports felling, limbing, bucking, and pruning.

1. Felling: Plan escape path. Make notch cut (1/3 tree diameter), then felling cut. Use wedges if needed.
2. Limbing: Support log off ground. Cut from top side, limb from trunk outward.
3. Bucking: Support log fully. Use top of bar for cutting on top, bottom for undercuts.
4. Pruning: Cut small branches with one smooth cut. Do not force bar.

WARNING! Beware of kickback. Keep nose of bar out of cut. Do not cut above shoulder height. Always maintain secure footing.

Chain Maintenance

Sharpening: Use round file (5/32") and file guide. Maintain 30° cutting angle. File each cutter evenly. Tension: Adjust when chain sags from bottom of bar. Chain should snap back when pulled. Lubrication: Ensure oiler is working; clean oil ports regularly.

Storage

Long-term: Drain all fuel from tank and carburetor. Run engine until it stops. Remove chain, clean, and soak in oil. Store in dry place, covered.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank for more than 30 days. Fuel degrades and damages carburetor.

Safety Information

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Required: Safety glasses, hearing protection, cut-resistant gloves, chainsaw chaps, steel-toe boots, hard hat if felling. Operation: Always use two hands. Do not operate when tired or impaired. Keep bystanders at least 15 feet away. Maintain firm grip; be aware of kickback zone (upper quadrant of bar nose).

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Craftsman service center. Do not attempt major engine repairs yourself.

Support: 1-888-331-4569; www.craftsman.com